Do you travel frequently? Perhaps you visit a lot of places for business purposes, or maybe you are able to take frequent vacations. Either way, you might have questions about how oral surgery could affect your travel plans. For example, if you will receive dental implants, how long should you wait before you are on the move again? This blog post offers helpful guidance.
Flying Right Away: Safe but Not Comfortable
It is technically safe to be on a plane immediately after dental implant surgery. If the plane is properly pressurized, there should be no increased risk of bleeding or other complications.
However, waiting is the wiser choice! Your mouth will likely be sore for 1 – 2 weeks after your surgery. Walking through the airport, managing your luggage, and coping with the stress of a crowded environment can be extra-difficult when you are still healing. Plus, you may find it difficult to get adequate rest in an economy class airplane seat. Because of these considerations, you should wait 10 – 14 days before you fly if your circumstances allow.
If you must fly sooner, try to get a seat near the airplane’s lavatory. This will make it easier to get up to change your gauze, rinse your mouth, and monitor your surgical sites. If you are taking a strong pain reliever, let your flight attendant know so they will understand why you might seem extra tired or overly sleepy. Do not hesitate to ask for a bag of ice if you are uncomfortable due to swelling.
Road Trips After Getting Dental Implants
If you plan to drive after your surgery, wait until any sedation wears off. In some cases, this can take up to 24 hours. You should also not drive while under the influence of narcotic painkillers or any other substance that could affect your judgement and reaction times.
If your plan is simply to be a passenger in a car, you can start your road trip right after your surgery. Make sure you have enough water, pain relievers, and soft foods that will not cause extra oral soreness. Slip on some comfy clothes, and consider bringing a pillow so you can keep your head elevated if you decide to take a nap in the car.
Even if you are eager to get to your destination, you need to exercise wisdom when it comes to traveling after dental implant surgery. Talk to your dentist for tailored advice on your post-op experience.
Meet the Practice
At Santavicca Dental Professionals, we proudly provide start-to-finish dental implant services in a welcoming environment. We are happy to provide tips and guidance on how you can navigate the post-op period. To learn more about us or to request a consultation, contact our office in Lebanon, NH, at 603-215-7108.